Ponce de Leon Springs, Ponce de Leon, Florida

## Overview Ponce de Leon Springs is a stunning first-magnitude natural spring located within Ponce de Leon Springs State Park in Holmes County, Florida. The spring produces a constant flow of crystal-clear water that maintains a year-round temperature of approximately 68°F (20°C), making it a refreshing destination in every season. The spring takes its name from the legendary Spanish explorer Juan Ponce de León, who arrived on the coast of Florida in 1513 during his search for the fabled Fountain of Youth. While there is no historical evidence that Ponce de León himself visited this particular spring, the association with his quest for rejuvenating waters has become part of the site's enduring lore. For centuries, stories have circulated that bathing in the spring's waters could restore youth — a romantic legend that continues to draw thousands of visitors each year. The spring basin is a vivid pool fed by two spring vents that discharge an estimated 14 million gallons of water per day. The water is remarkably clear, with visibility often extending to the sandy bottom, and the surrounding area is shaded by mature hardwood trees draped in Spanish moss. The park encompasses approximately 443 acres of lush Florida landscape along Sandy Creek, offering a peaceful natural setting. ## Directions The spring is located inside **Ponce de Leon Springs State Park**. The correct address for navigation is: **2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Road, Ponce de Leon, FL 32455** GPS coordinates for the spring area: **30.720878, -85.931153** 1. From Interstate 10, take **Exit 96** onto **US Highway 331 South** (if coming from the east) or find your way to **State Road 81**. 2. Head toward the intersection of **I-10 and Highway 81** near the town of Ponce de Leon. 3. Follow signs to **Ponce de Leon Springs Road**. The park entrance will be clearly marked on the road. 4. After paying the entrance fee at the ranger station, follow the short path down to the spring basin. ## What to Expect Upon entering the state park, a short walk leads you down to the spring basin, where the water is strikingly clear and inviting. Swimming is permitted in the spring run, and the constant 68°F temperature feels cool and refreshing, especially during Florida's hot summers. **Entrance Fee:** There is a per-vehicle entrance fee to access the state park. However, visitors have reported that filling water containers at the spring is permitted at no additional charge beyond the park admission. **Water Collection Tips:** - Glass bottles are **not recommended** — broken glass poses a serious hazard to barefoot swimmers and other visitors. - Bring BPA-free plastic containers or food-grade jugs for collecting spring water. - The spring water has historically been regarded as clean, high-quality drinking water, and many visitors collect it for personal use. **Park Hours:** The park is open daily from **8:00 AM to sundown** (typically around 5:00 PM, though sunset times vary seasonally). The park is open **seven days a week**, year-round. **Facilities & Activities:** - Picnic pavilions and tables are available near the spring. - Nature trails wind through the surrounding hardwood forest along Sandy Creek. - The park offers opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and quiet relaxation. - Swimming and wading in the spring and spring run are popular activities. The spring is busiest on warm weekends and holidays, so visiting on a weekday or during the cooler months can offer a more tranquil experience. The natural beauty of the spring basin — with its turquoise water, limestone bottom, and canopy of old-growth trees — makes this one of the most scenic and accessible springs in the Florida Panhandle.